Infants 0-12 Months

When your baby’s first tooth erupts, it’s a major milestone in their development, signaling the beginning of their oral health journey.

Your Child’s First Dental Visit:

Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday. This early visit will set the tone for a positive relationship with the dentist and help prevent future dental issues. Keep the visit upbeat, and avoid using words that might cause unnecessary fear (such as “needle” or “hurt”). Pediatric dental teams use child-friendly language to explain procedures and ensure your little one feels comfortable.

Home Oral Hygiene Routine:

Before Teeth Erupt: After feedings, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a damp washcloth to remove plaque.

Once Teeth Appear: Begin brushing with a soft toothbrush as soon as the first tooth emerges.

Bedtime Bottles: Avoid giving your baby a bottle at bedtime, as it can cause tooth decay. If needed, make sure it’s filled with only water.

Teething and Tooth Eruption:

When Do Teeth Appear?: Teething usually begins between 6-8 months. The first teeth are often the lower front (anterior) teeth, followed by the upper front teeth. This process continues until all 20 primary teeth appear by around age 3.

Permanent Teeth: Permanent teeth typically begin to emerge around age 6, starting with the first molars and lower central incisors.

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay (Early Childhood Caries):

What is it?: This condition results from exposing your baby’s teeth to sugary liquids, such as milk, formula, or juice, for prolonged periods. Bedtime bottles filled with sweet liquids can lead to rapid tooth decay.

Prevention Tips: Never put your baby to bed with a bottle other than water. If your baby refuses to sleep without their usual beverage, try diluting it with water over time.

Preventing Cavities:

For Infants: After feedings, use a wet washcloth or gauze to wipe your baby’s gums and emerging teeth.

For Toddlers: Begin brushing their teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste once they’re old enough to spit.

Routine Visits: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends regular check-ups starting at your baby’s first birthday, and every six months thereafter.

Thumb Sucking:

Is It Normal?: Sucking on thumbs or pacifiers is a natural soothing habit for many babies. However, if thumb sucking continues after the eruption of permanent teeth, it can impact tooth alignment and jaw growth.

Encouraging Cessation: Most children stop thumb sucking between ages 2-4. If thumb sucking persists, work with your pediatric dentist for strategies to help your child stop.

Why Are Primary Teeth So Important?

Primary (baby) teeth play a crucial role in:

• Proper Chewing: Ensuring your child can chew and eat effectively.
• Guiding Permanent Teeth: These teeth hold space for permanent teeth to emerge and align properly.
• Speech Development: Healthy teeth contribute to clear speech.
• Jaw and Muscle Development: They support normal development of the jaw and facial muscles.
• A Beautiful Smile: Primary teeth also help develop an attractive appearance.

Proper Care of Your Child’s Teeth:

• Brushing: Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste once your child is old enough to spit it out. Supervise your child’s brushing until they’re about 7 years old to ensure it’s done properly.
• Flossing: Begin flossing when two teeth touch. It’s important to remove plaque from between the teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. Supervise your child until they can floss independently.

By establishing a good oral hygiene routine early, you’re setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Regular dentist visits, healthy habits, and a little guidance will help ensure your child’s teeth stay strong and cavity-free.